Tomato Chicken Pasta

If you’re searching for a quick, delicious, and comforting dinner idea, this easy Tomato Chicken Pasta recipe is exactly what you need. Combining juicy chicken, vibrant tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is a lively celebration of flavors that comes together in just minutes. Whether you’re busy on a weeknight or craving something homemade and satisfying, this recipe delivers rich taste and simplicity all in one bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A quick dinner solution: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings without sacrificing flavor.
• Comfort food with a twist: Combines classic pasta and tomato sauce with tender chicken for a hearty yet fresh meal.
• Easy ingredient list: Uses common pantry staples and fresh ingredients—no complicated shopping required.
• Family-friendly flavors: Mild and flavorful, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Simple to modify for dietary needs or to add your favorite veggies and herbs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Tomato Chicken Pasta recipe calls for straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each add a layer of deliciousness—from the sweetness of tomatoes to the savoriness of chicken and the tender bite of pasta. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, perfect for quick cooking and absorbing flavors.
• Fresh tomatoes or canned crushed tomatoes: The base of our sauce, offering brightness and richness.
• Pasta of your choice: Classic spaghetti, penne, or fusilli all work great for clinging to sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Adds a fragrant punch to the sauce.
• Olive oil: For sautéing and infusing the dish with a smooth richness.
• Onion: Provides a subtle sweetness when cooked down gently.
• Fresh basil or dried Italian herbs: Elevates the flavor with herbal notes.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Optional, for garnish and a creamy finish.

Variations for Tomato Chicken Pasta

One of the best parts about this Tomato Chicken Pasta is how adaptable it is. Feel free to make it your own by adjusting ingredients or boosting its nutrition. Here are some tasty ways to switch it up:

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper for some heat.
• Vegetable boost: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to amp up freshness and texture.
• Low-carb version: Swap regular pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Cheesy twist: Stir in mozzarella or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
• Herb variations: Use rosemary or thyme instead of basil for a different aromatic profile.

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How to Make Tomato Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by dicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces and chopping the onion and garlic finely. If using fresh tomatoes, chop them roughly or prepare canned crushed tomatoes ahead of time.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your chosen pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté onion until translucent. Toss in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the tomatoes, add herbs, and simmer the mixture for 10 minutes to thicken and deepen the flavors.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce, stirring to combine. Toss in the drained pasta and mix until everything is evenly coated. Cook together briefly just to warm through, then serve topped with fresh basil and Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips for Making Tomato Chicken Pasta

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Keep chicken juicy by cooking just until no longer pink.
• Use pasta water: Save some pasta cooking water to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Balance acidity: Add a pinch of sugar if the tomato sauce tastes too tart.
• Fresh herbs matter: Add fresh basil at the end for the brightest flavor.
• Cook pasta al dente: It holds up better when mixed with sauce and doesn’t get mushy.

How to Serve Tomato Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Finishing your dish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, freshly chopped basil leaves, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil brings freshness, creaminess, and visual appeal to the Tomato Chicken Pasta.

Side Dishes

This pasta goes wonderfully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted Mediterranean vegetables to create a balanced and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Tomato Chicken Pasta in colorful bowls or plates, decorate with edible flowers or microgreens, or make individual portions in ramekins followed by a quick broil to melt cheese on top for an elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Tomato Chicken Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the pasta in a suitable container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more moisture and flavor, just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by choosing gluten-free pasta varieties while keeping the rest of the ingredients the same.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the chicken for plant-based protein options like tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas and proceed with the sauce and pasta as usual.

How spicy is this Tomato Chicken Pasta?

On its own, this recipe is mild, but you can easily add chili flakes or hot sauce to boost the heat to your liking.

What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?

Short pasta like penne or fusilli works great for holding the tomato sauce, but feel free to use your favorite pasta type.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about a well-made Tomato Chicken Pasta, especially when it’s quick and easy enough to whip up any night of the week. With simple ingredients and a comforting blend of flavors, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. So grab your pan, and let’s make this delicious meal tonight!

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